selznick
Proper noun A surname, most famously that of David O. Selznick (1902–1965), a prominent and influential American film producer.
The word "Selznick" is used almost exclusively as a proper noun to refer to the individual David O. Selznick or, by extension, to his work and legacy in the film industry. It is not used as a common noun. * David O. Selznick was known for his meticulous attention to detail. * The studio acquired the rights to the Selznick library.
- "Selznickian" (adjective): Pertaining to or characteristic of David O. Selznick or his style of filmmaking, which was often marked by grand production values, literary adaptations, and strong producer control.
- The epic scale and romantic sweep of the film were truly Selznickian.
- Selznick International Pictures: The name of the independent production company founded by David O. Selznick in 1936.
- Producer (in the specific context of his role, but "Selznick" refers to the specific person, not the job title).
The core meaning of "Selznick" is as a surname identifying a key figure in Hollywood's Golden Age. His most famous productions include Gone with the Wind (1939) and Rebecca (1940). The term has become metonymic, sometimes used to represent a certain era or style of classic Hollywood film production.
- United States filmmaker noted for his film adaptations of popular novels (1902-1965)